Excelsa coffee is a rare and unique variety that stands out in the coffee world for its bold flavor profile. It showcases tart tropical fruit notes, including mango and pineapple, complemented by subtle floral hints like jasmine. Originally from Central Africa, Excelsa is primarily cultivated in Southeast Asia, particularly in the Philippines and Vietnam. This coffee boasts a complex taste with a medium to full body and a moderate acidity that enhances its smoothness. If you’re interested in exploring its distinctive qualities and selection further, there’s a wealth of information to discover.
Key Takeaways
- Excelsa coffee is celebrated for its bold and intricate flavor profile, which showcases tropical fruit notes such as mango and pineapple.
- Once classified as Coffea excelsa, this coffee is now recognized as Coffea liberica var. dewevrei.
- It is predominantly grown in Southeast Asia, with significant cultivation occurring in the Philippines and Vietnam.
- Excelsa beans represent less than 1% of global coffee production, rendering them rare and highly sought-after.
- The unique attributes of this coffee include a medium body, moderate acidity, and a flavor spectrum that shifts according to the roast level.
What Does Excelsa Coffee Taste Like?
When you take a sip of Excelsa coffee, you’ll immediately notice its bold and complex flavor profile, which combines intriguing notes of tropical fruits like mango and pineapple with the richness of darker fruits such as plum.
This medium to full body coffee offers moderate acidity, creating a smoother experience than Robusta.
This medium to full-bodied coffee provides a smooth experience with moderate acidity, surpassing the robustness of traditional options.
The taste of Excelsa coffee features tart and fruity elements, including raspberry and floral hints of jasmine and hibiscus, enhancing its unique sensory experience.
Roasting methods can influence the flavor, with medium-light roasts accentuating fruity notes, while darker roasts introduce nutty and chocolatey undertones, appealing to diverse coffee drinkers.
Origins of Excelsa Coffee Beans
Excelsa coffee’s distinctive flavor profile is a result of its unique origins, tracing back to Central Africa around 1903.
Originally classified as Coffea excelsa, this rare variety was later reclassified under the Liberica species as Coffea liberica var. dewevrei.
Today, Excelsa coffee beans are primarily cultivated in Southeast Asia, particularly in the Philippines, Vietnam, Malaysia, and Indonesia.
These beans are renowned for their resilience to pests and diseases and flourish at elevations of up to 750 meters.
Despite their intriguing characteristics, Excelsa coffee accounts for less than 1% of global coffee production, making it a sought-after choice for coffee enthusiasts.
Where Is Excelsa Coffee Grown?
Excelsa coffee, known for its unique flavor profile, is primarily cultivated in select regions of Southeast Asia where the climate and elevation suit its growth needs.
In Vietnam, Excelsa is predominantly grown in the Central Highlands, particularly in the provinces of Lam Dong and Dak Lak.
The Philippines has a long-standing tradition of Excelsa cultivation, especially in Batangas and Cavite, dating back to the late 1800s.
Additionally, this variety is grown alongside Liberica in certain regions of Malaysia.
Excelsa thrives in specific climates, often at elevations up to 750 meters, but it typically yields lower quantities compared to more common varieties like Arabica or Robusta.
Unique Qualities of the Excelsa Coffee Bean
The unique qualities of the Excelsa coffee bean set it apart from more common varieties, making it a favorite among coffee enthusiasts.
Excelsa beans boast a complex flavor profile, featuring tart notes of tropical fruits like mango and pineapple, complemented by darker fruits such as plum and subtle floral hints. Their medium size and oval shape, characterized by a lightly wrinkled surface, further distinguish them in the world of coffee.
With a remarkable resistance to pests, these rare beans account for only about 1% of global coffee production. Additionally, their caffeine content ranges from 86 mg to 113 mg per 8 oz cup, striking a balance between Arabica and Robusta.
How to Choose the Best Excelsa Coffee?
How can you ensure you’re choosing the best Excelsa coffee for your taste buds? Begin by considering the origin; beans sourced from the Philippines or Vietnam present unique flavor profiles shaped by their growing conditions.
Consider the origin of Excelsa coffee beans, as those from the Philippines or Vietnam offer distinct flavor profiles influenced by their growing conditions.
Take note of the roast level—medium-light roasts tend to amplify fruity notes like mango, while dark roasts bring out richer, nutty flavors.
Opt for reputable specialty coffee retailers that offer comprehensive descriptions of flavor notes and processing methods.
Keep an eye on pricing; you can expect to spend around $20-$25 for a 12 oz bag due to the coffee’s rarity.
Lastly, look for blends that highlight Excelsa’s distinctive characteristics, creating a well-rounded flavor experience for your palate.
